Brief Summary
As the 1950s Mau Mau war breaks out in the foothills of Mt. Kenya, Wambũi, a fourteen-year-old girl leaves her besieged village to join a prestigious boarding school a half day’s journey away by train. There, she becomes aware of her extraordinary mathematical abilities discovered by her teacher, Eileen Atwood. Initially, Wambũi views Eileen’s attentions with suspicion and hostility, but over time, the two grow close and form a lifelong friendship. Unfortunately for Wambũi, the mid-twentieth century isn’t ready for a female math prodigy, particularly in Kenya.
But she quietly and defiantly takes on the obstacles seeking to define her, applying her unusual gifts in new directions, which ultimately benefits her impoverished family and inspires her siblings and their children to pursue their own dreams. After forty years in Kenya, Eileen unexpectedly loses her employment authorization and is forced to return to England, where she struggles to adjust to living in a country she barely recognizes. Meanwhile, Wambũi’s son, Ray, a doctor, navigates a fraught visa application process and travels to America to begin residency training; however, his hospital becomes insolvent and shuts down a year later. He and his colleagues are assimilated into other programs where, as foreign-born physicians, they endure relentless prejudice. As a black man, he also discovers that the streets of Chicago are sometimes quick to judge, with serious consequences.
A saga of family and friendship spanning five decades and three continents, 'The People of Ostrich Mountain' chronicles the interconnected lives of three outsiders as they navigate the vagaries of race, gender and immigration.
Mike Estenaldo –
Wonderful piece of writing
Wabwire Sharon –
One of the most inspiring and thought provoking books I’ve read.
(Anonymous) –
Been busy bt I finally spared some time last weekend to read this book. What a gem! I wish I read it on the same day I bought it. Nevertheless, this is a wonderful read. This author is quite gifted and I think everyone should read this book.
First of all, I love how this guy knows how to capture emotions, wow mehn!.
I loved this Hono guy who must have been a handsome and intelligent chap.
The book also has deep messages and themes around religion, colonization, and marriage.
Again, this is a gem guy. Let us read this book!!!
Otieno Jakababa –
Wonderful read. Keep writing, Ouma
Cherono Mutabi –
I am amazed that we still have this level of creativity in Kenya. This is a wonderful read, people. I read it and I will read it over and over again. Nyangata is a powerful orator he needs to be awarded like ASAP. I recommend this 100%
Kamenjo N. M. –
Beautifully and creative craft. Reading this book rekindles my hope of th classical African literature of the 50s and 60s. This is truly 𝑨𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒏 and beautiful. I loved every single page of this book. Ouma Nyangata is a guru of storytelling. I’d recommend this book 1000%.
Mwangi M. Noel –
Magical. A brilliantly written work of literature. I love the plot and the underlying message of hope that defies all. This book has a great future. Y’all need to grab a copy soonest.